Many furniture makers attach cleaning labels to furniture, either under the cushions or on a fabric sample tag. These labels may include a letter that indicates the cleaning method recommended for that furniture and upholstery. It is recommended that you clean upholstery labelled "W" with water-based soaps and cleaners; clean furniture labelled "WS" with either a water-based cleaner or a solvent. Furniture labelled "S" is usually rayon or silk that requires dry-cleaning solvents. Water-based cleaners may shrink these fabrics or leave a permanent water stain.

Scrape any solid dirt or matter off the upholstery with a spoon or butter knife.

If a spill is fresh, blot the upholstery with paper towels or clean white cloths to remove excess liquid.

Apply a small amount of dry-cleaning solvent to a white cloth, and blot the upholstery gently.

Blot stains by working from the outside of the stain inward to prevent the stain from spreading.

Apply a clean, dry cloth to the stain to blot up the dry-cleaning solvent.